View Full Version : Slapfish
GaryOKC6 04-26-2018, 03:24 PM Slapfish Unveils Expansion Plans for Oklahoma City
Industry News April 26, 2018
Slapfish, a modern seafood restaurant serving up bold, crave-worthy dishes in a fast casual setting, announced its continued expansion throughout the Southwest. This time, the inventive concept makes its way to Oklahoma City, with plans to open two locations in the state’s capital by the end of the year. The 13-unit, chef-driven restaurant specializes in boat-to-plate dining, making this expansion a milestone for the brand and seafood lovers across the Sooner State.
Slapfish Oklahoma City is owned and operated by U.S. Army Veteran and restaurateur, Mechelle Petty, and her best friend, Natalie Neal. Following her success with two Subway franchises, Petty was exploring lucrative new concepts, and after visiting Slapfish in its native California, she fell in love with the brand and the rest is history. An experienced franchisee and Veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, Petty has always possessed an entrepreneurial spirit, and knew she had to bring the bib-worthy seafood restaurant to her community. As the foremost female franchise partner and first to expand into Oklahoma, the Tulsa native is determined to open three locations throughout the market by the end of 2019 – with the first slated for the Nichols Hills neighborhood of Oklahoma City this fall.
“Oklahomans love seafood, but there is nothing like Slapfish in the entire state,” says Petty. “The brand’s focus on sustainability and commitment to serving the best ingredients, combined with Chef Gruel’s dedication to our success, promises a strong, expansive future. Oklahoma City is also a booming market with a need for quality fast casual seafood restaurants, and I can’t wait to introduce this incredible concept to my home state.”
Known for unique, over-the-top dishes, Slapfish’s menu features original items like Chowder Fries, Clobster Grilled Cheese and Lobster Grinders, as well as a rotating selection of well-managed seafood incorporated into salads, sandwiches and bowls. Originally founded as a seafood shack-inspired food truck in 2011, CEO and Head Chef Andrew Gruel has quickly expanded the concept on an international scale. With 13 brick-and-mortar locations throughout California, New Mexico and Utah, Slapfish has become a household name from coast to coast, with plans to break ground in many new markets in 2018, including Northern Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., Florida, and London. The brand currently has over 150 locations in development, catering to the worldwide demand for high quality seafood in a relaxed setting.
“Oklahoma City makes for the perfect next step in our international expansion strategy. Following our success in Albuquerque and Salt Lake City, we are confident that Oklahomans will welcome Slapfish with open arms and stomachs,” adds Gruel. “The community has never seen a fast casual seafood restaurant, and we are beyond excited to share our vision of responsibly-sourced, chef-driven seafood with a brand new state.”
calitook 04-26-2018, 07:27 PM Went to lunch at Slapfish in California in February. I really liked it. This will be a great addition to the market.
Coming to Chisholm Creek and next to Hopdoddy in Nichols Hills Plaza:
Razzoo's, Slapfish and more coming to Chisholm Creek (http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=556-Razzoo-s-Slapfish-and-more-coming-to-Chisholm-Creek/)
CloudDeckMedia 01-22-2019, 02:16 PM Next door to Hopdoddy. Still under construction - does anyone know an opening date?
https://www.slapfishrestaurant.com/
Not yet but they have been working in that space for a while.
Also coming to Chisholm Creek.
They are now open in Nichols Hills Plaza next to Hopdoddy.
In addition to the menu shown below, they have a pretty extensive list of fish specials written on butcher paper near the counter.
It's an order-at-the-counter sort of place and they have that annoying thing where after you present your card the screen prompts you with tip amounts starting at 15%. You can opt out but the server is standing there watching the entire tiime. I really, really hate this practice.
I ordered the Ultimate Fish Taco and it was very good. The whitefish was wonderfully fried as the single large piece (no doubt the same item from their Fish & Chips) was light and moist and just right. The sauce and cabbage and other things were quite good but it was almost impossible to pick up and eat. They have regular fish tacos that might be a better choice, but this item was really quite good. And you can order the fish grilled vs. fried.
In addition to Sriracha, Talipa and several other sauces they also had their own bottles of Slapfish Sriracha and Slapfish Habenero. I tried the later but didn't care for it; completely overpowered by the vinegar.
Even though it was only 70 degrees outside, it was uncomfortably hot inside and there was no outside seating. I suspect they'll get that corrected. BUT. It was stupid loud. I know most places are these day but this was almost intolerable, likely because the space is pretty small and all glass on 2 sides.
The food came fast, was tasty and the service was nice and helpful. I'd like to try some of the other items, particularly their bowls. But for a place that lists substainability twice on their menu, they seemed to only have plastic utensils although food is served on stoneware.
The parking here is going to be a problem. This was 5:00 at night and Hopdoddy was yet to start rolling and yet there weren't even spaces in the lot behind the building, let alone in front.
They will eventually open a location at Chisholm Creek but that hasn't even started construction yet.
It's a good concept and I hope they add some outdoor tables as there is room, ala Hopdoddy. Maybe just haven't gotten to that yet.
http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/slapfish032319a.jpg
http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/slapfish032319b.jpg
http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/slapfish032319d.jpg
http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/slapfish032319c.jpg
rte66man 03-24-2019, 08:08 AM It's an order-at-the-counter sort of place and they have that annoying thing where after you present your card the screen prompts you with tip amounts starting at 15%. You can opt out but the server is standing there watching the entire time. I really, really hate this practice.
+1
Nashbird does the same thing. How can I tip if I don't know the level or quality of service that will be provided?
I'm almost to the point that I won't patronize places that do this for order-at-the-counter.
Or to put it another way, unless something is very, very good, I'll take my business elsewhere.
Richard at Remax 03-24-2019, 09:54 PM Pie Junkie did this to me for handing me an already made drunken turtle. I didn't leave a tip. Someone somewhere must have stats where the more you make someone uncomfortable, the more likely they will tip something. This has to explain bathroom attendants at fancy places.
Thomas Vu 03-25-2019, 08:13 AM Something that just occurred to me, what's the difference of ordering at the counter with the machine vs filling out the receipt? The person at the counter is going to see what you put in regardless. Unless you guys are against ordering at the counter at all, then I don't get the hate behind the machine.
^
It's the same issue. I don't like it when they put a spot for tip on the receipt, either -- unless it's table service or the bar.
But regarding the POS tip prompt, that usually starts with suggested tip amounts which is even worse.
CloudDeckMedia 03-25-2019, 09:45 AM There appears to be an available retail space between Slapfish & Hopdoddy. If so, and with the parking issues mentioned, that'll be a tough spot to fill.
Rover 03-25-2019, 11:02 AM There are people out there who struggle with figuring the amount of the tip and to them the suggested tip amount at different rates comes in handy. It tends to speed up some check outs. And everyone is still free to use their own mind.
As far as tipping when ordering, as long as I’m carrying cash, I don’t pay up front.. only at the table afterward. I don’t consider taking the order “service”. If I have to refill my own drink and bus my own table, then there still is no service and no tip. I don’t tip for service I don’t get. I tip well for good service provided.
bucktalk 03-25-2019, 11:40 AM Absolutely agree! I'm sure this format will become normal for many places but I hate it!
I'm almost to the point that I won't patronize places that do this for order-at-the-counter.
Or to put it another way, unless something is very, very good, I'll take my business elsewhere.
Rover 03-25-2019, 12:12 PM This is a fickle crowd on here. A few months back I had the same criticism for a new place and was roundly rebuked that this was the new norm. Now, it is important enough to quit doing business at establishments that do this. LOL. Guess Slapfish just isn't "cool" or hipster enough.
This is a fickle crowd on here. A few months back I had the same criticism for a new place and was roundly rebuked that this was the new norm. Now, it is important enough to quit doing business at establishments that do this. LOL. Guess Slapfish just isn't "cool" or hipster enough.
Believe it or not, who reads and reponds to a post varies greatly.
I've made this same point several times in the past.
I too, am not fond of the pre-tip or suggested tip gimmick. I can do Math. I tip for the service I receive, not what I hope to get.
As soon as I saw this Thread Title, my mind went Monty Python. If they could place a small still from that routine amongst the "Wall Bling."
Thomas Vu 03-25-2019, 01:41 PM This maybe the only reason I could start carrying cash. Seems like more of a hassle I'm willing to put in though. I wish the 0 amount was in a consistent place from vendor to vendor.
Plutonic Panda 03-25-2019, 03:15 PM I guess I don’t have a problem with it. I always tip even though I don’t know how the service will be and if it ends up being that bad I’ll just talk with someone higher up. I’ve had to do that maybe once or twice in my life. Most times than not I’ll confront the waiter if service is bad and it almost always ends well. I’m pretty laid back when I go out to eat so not a lot bothers me.
okatty 03-25-2019, 04:57 PM Went to SF today.....interesting. Seemed to be sorta still trying to figure things out. I got the Power Bowl which was actually pretty good but came with a tiny little dab of dressing. I asked for more and they brought me another tiny dab. I should have asked for several i guess. The staff seemed a little unsure about various things. I'll reserve judgment until they have time to get things smoothed out.
I thought the menu was pretty interesting. The lady near us got some sort of lobster grilled cheese that looked pretty dang amazing.
OH, and happy to report the chip reader was broken so no forced option for the tip.:)
Bullbear 04-03-2019, 08:54 AM I attempted to go to Slapfish.. they are closed temporarily. even on Yelp it shows temp closed till possibly April 6th. lots of not so good reviews on yelp so it appears they are doing additional training.
I attempted to go to Slapfish.. they are closed temporarily. even on Yelp it shows temp closed till possibly April 6th. lots of not so good reviews on yelp so it appears they are doing additional training.
I received my food quickly but Dave Cathey of Oklahoman reported he got up and left after waiting forever for his order.
Had a friend tell me pretty much the same thing.
It's an ambitious menu... Lots of items, most involving fresh fish. That's not easy to execute, especially in a fast-casual setting where people are expecting the food to come out relatively quickly.
BoulderSooner 04-03-2019, 10:12 AM I received my food quickly but Dave Cathey of Oklahoman reported he got up and left after waiting forever for his order.
Had a friend tell me pretty much the same thing.
It's an ambitious menu... Lots of items, most involving fresh fish. That's not easy to execute, especially in a fast-casual setting where people are expecting the food to come out relatively quickly.
they put out on social media that they have a water issue and are closed until it gets repaired
Bullbear 04-03-2019, 10:17 AM they put out on social media that they have a water issue and are closed until it gets repaired
The sign that was on the door said for additional training.. so who knows.
loveOKC 04-03-2019, 11:41 AM I went this past weekend, and although it took a while for our food to come out we were able to look over it because it’s a new spot and they were very busy. Also, when we got to the counter there was a piece of paper that said half the items on their menu was unavailable.
I did notice a lot of people getting up and walking out after they ordered which I didn’t understand because you pay at the counter.
The food was ok, they were very apologetic for the wait and even offered a free appetizer. I’ll probably go back after a few weeks once they get their processes down, but to me it’s just a knock off Off The Hook.
BoulderSooner 04-03-2019, 12:17 PM I went this past weekend, and although it took a while for our food to come out we were able to look over it because it’s a new spot and they were very busy. Also, when we got to the counter there was a piece of paper that said half the items on their menu was unavailable.
I did notice a lot of people getting up and walking out after they ordered which I didn’t understand because you pay at the counter.
The food was ok, they were very apologetic for the wait and even offered a free appetizer. I’ll probably go back after a few weeks once they get their processes down, but to me it’s just a knock off Off The Hook.
slapfish was founded in 2011 in LA
loveOKC 04-03-2019, 01:07 PM slapfish was founded in 2011 in LA
True, but they only offered three items, their “lobster melt” wasn’t offered until much later hence the Off the Hook knockoff reference.
Jersey Boss 04-03-2019, 03:55 PM Off The Hook only has 3 items? That was not what I experienced when i went there.
loveOKC 04-03-2019, 05:39 PM Off The Hook only has 3 items? That was not what I experienced when i went there.
I’m saying Slapfish had only 3 items in 2011 when they opened and a lobster melt wasn’t one of those three items. Off the Hook has offered that sandwich for some time now and that’s why I was saying that Slapfish seemed like an Off the Hook knockoff.
This is what they posted to their door:
http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/slapfish040319.jpg
Jersey Boss 04-03-2019, 07:23 PM I’m saying Slapfish had only 3 items in 2011 when they opened and a lobster melt wasn’t one of those three items. Off the Hook has offered that sandwich for some time now and that’s why I was saying that Slapfish seemed like an Off the Hook knockoff.
Thanks for clearing up my confusion.
roci28 04-04-2019, 04:23 AM I am happy to see that sign and for them to take responsibility and try to make it right. We went a week after they opened, had to bus our own table and after one of the workers trying to give us someone else food and waiting 45 min for our food had to get our money back. I was surprised to see to training folks from established areas, (or it definitely didn't appear there was anyone in there training) in a new to market location. I hope for the best for them.
BoulderSooner 04-04-2019, 05:40 AM I’m saying Slapfish had only 3 items in 2011 when they opened and a lobster melt wasn’t one of those three items. Off the Hook has offered that sandwich for some time now and that’s why I was saying that Slapfish seemed like an Off the Hook knockoff.
so you think slapfish came to the middle of the country found off the hook went back to california and changed there menu then years laster are coming to OKC??
CloudDeckMedia 04-04-2019, 08:44 AM I visited their website a couple of months ago - lots of typos, wrong address in OKC, the email link didn't work. Maybe I'm reading too much into this, but I don't see a company that sweats the details.
Thomas Vu 04-04-2019, 08:46 AM so you think slapfish came to the middle of the country found off the hook went back to california and changed there menu then years laster are coming to OKC??
That's dedication when it comes to trying to serve the clientele!
The operator is a franchisee.
I wouldn't be surprised if the parent company insisted they closed until they could better represent the brand.
Easy180 04-04-2019, 12:31 PM The operator is a franchisee.
I wouldn't be surprised if the parent company insisted they closed until they could better represent the brand.
Yup. This reeks of a franchisee in over their head.
loveOKC 04-04-2019, 12:44 PM so you think slapfish came to the middle of the country found off the hook went back to california and changed there menu then years laster are coming to OKC??
Yep, exactly how I pictured it
roci28 04-10-2019, 07:19 AM Does anyone know if they have re-opened yet and if so, how are they doing?
Does anyone know if they have re-opened yet and if so, how are they doing?
I went by to check on Monday and it was still completely closed.
They have reopened, according to Dave Cathey at the Oklahoman.
chuck5815 04-17-2019, 09:16 PM They have reopened, according to Dave Cathey at the Oklahoman.
I may just have to drop by and check if the Staff is up to Snuff.
TheirTheir 04-18-2019, 08:17 AM Some friends of mine went there for lunch yesterday and said that the food was fine, but everything else was bad: price, vibe, service, etc.
They went on to speculate that none of the fish they received had been slapped.
Jersey Boss 04-23-2019, 11:54 AM Some friends of mine went there for lunch yesterday and said that the food was fine, but everything else was bad: price, vibe, service, etc.
They went on to speculate that none of the fish they received had been slapped.
Reviews since reopening have been consistent with yours.
https://www.yelp.com/biz/slapfish-nichols-hills?sort_by=date_desc
^
Holy cow, those reviews are absolutely brutal.
Hopefully they can turn things around.
Richard at Remax 04-23-2019, 01:27 PM does anyone know who the franchisee is?
CloudDeckMedia 04-23-2019, 01:34 PM does anyone know who the franchisee is?
Mechelle Petty and Natalie Neal. Petty owns/owned two Subway franchises.
https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/slapfish-unveils-expansion-plans-oklahoma-city
MadMonk 04-25-2019, 01:15 PM I haven't been by there yet, but my daughter and her friend went recently and didn't really care for it. My daughter is a huge lobster/shrimp/crab fan and she said it wasn't that great. I can't recall what her and her friend had, but they were both pretty disappointed.
liirogue 09-19-2019, 06:35 PM Has this location closed? We went to the Hopdoddy tonight and Slapfish is dark and the doors are locked.
Jersey Boss 09-19-2019, 08:08 PM Maybe that will provide an opening for Bonefish.
thunderbird 09-20-2019, 08:10 AM I’ve noticed it being dark a few times as well. The food is poorly executed and the staffing/management doesn’t help much.
I think the concept could have really done well with different leadership.
Yes, they closed on Sunday and have not reopened.
And the franchisee has not been returning calls.
They have a new location under construction in Chihsolm Creek and I bet that is not going to happen now.
http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/slapfish091519a.jpg
chuck5815 09-20-2019, 01:21 PM This was almost as bad as the food / execution at Birra Birra. Honestly, I'm not surprised that it closed.
ditm4567 09-20-2019, 04:15 PM This was almost as bad as the food / execution at Birra Birra. Honestly, I'm not surprised that it closed.
This comparison is comical. I needed a good laugh, thank you.
CloudDeckMedia 09-20-2019, 04:35 PM Slapfish is a franchisor, and Petty & Neal seemed like promising franchisees. I wonder if the franchisor has any lease liability that would encourage them to reopen as a company-owned location, or with new franchisees. There is nothing wrong with the location except the parking is a little tight.
chuck5815 09-20-2019, 04:55 PM This comparison is comical. I needed a good laugh, thank you.
i suppose some of us do have comical tastebuds.
definitely glad I don’t fall into that category!
soonerguru 09-21-2019, 02:18 AM Went once. No desire to return.
The OKC location has been removed from the Slapfish website.
Looks like the local franchisees might be done.
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